In multiple baseline design, what is being assessed?

In multiple baseline design, the focus is on assessing the impact of an intervention by implementing it across two or more behaviors, situations, or individuals at different points in time. This design is particularly useful for determining the effectiveness of an intervention when randomization is not feasible or ethical, as it allows for a comparison of behaviors within the same individual or across different individuals.

By applying the intervention sequentially, researchers can observe the changes in behavior or outcomes as the intervention is introduced at various intervals. This staggered approach helps to control for external variables that may influence the results, making it clearer that any observed changes are likely due to the intervention rather than other factors.

This design effectively demonstrates causal relationships and can provide strong evidence for the efficacy of the treatment being tested, making it invaluable in the field of music therapy and other behavioral interventions.